Ben Sira 21:2

2 Flee from sin as from the face of a serpent, for if thou comest too near it, it will bite thee; the teeth thereof are as the teeth of a lion, slaying the souls of men.

Ben Sira 21:2 In-Context

1 My son, hast thou sinned? Do so no more, but ask pardon for thy former sins.

2 Flee from sin as from the face of a serpent, for if thou comest too near it, it will bite thee; the teeth thereof are as the teeth of a lion, slaying the souls of men.

3 All iniquity is as a two-edged sword, the wounds whereof cannot be healed.

4 To terrify and do wrong will waste riches; thus the house of proud men shall be made desolate.

5 A prayer out of a poor man's mouth reacheth to the ears of God, and His judgment cometh speedily.